529 College Savings Plans

When you save for your loved one's education in a TIAA1 managed state sponsored 529 plan, their dreams - and your future savings goals - can be easier to achieve. Unlike other investment accounts or future student loans, a 529 plan allows you to take advantage of additional benefits, both now and in the future.

1 TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc. (TFI) acts as the education savings division within TIAA.

529 Plan Finder

All 529 plans help investors save for educational goals, but they're not all the same. Use our tool below to determine if TIAA manages the 529 plan in your state. If not, there may still be reasons to consider an out of state plan. Before choosing a college savings plan, consider whether the state where you or your beneficiary lives has a 529 plan that offers state tax benefits.

Select the 2-letter abbreviation for the state you live in to find a 529 plan.

529 Plan Finder

529 Plan Finder Description

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Key Benefits of a TIAA Managed 529 Plan

Earnings in a 529 account grow federal and state income tax deferred and are tax free when used for qualified withdrawals. In some states, you may receive a states income tax deduction or tax credit on the contributions you make.

TIAA managed 529 plans have received Morningstar Medal ratings which are based on various plan attributes including low fees.

TIAA is committed to providing low cost 529 plans so more of your hard-earned money may go toward qualified education expenses. TIAA managed 529 plans have received Morningstar Medal ratings which are based on various plan attributes including low fees.

You don’t have to do it all on your own! Grandparents as well as other family and friends can make gifts to your account for maximum growth potential. You can even share secure gift codes using email, Facebook, Twitter, or printed party invitation inclusions to provide friends and family the perfect gift recommendation.

Funds can be used at any accredited university, college or vocational school nationwide — and many abroad.

Funds in a 529 plan can be used to pay for a number of qualified higher education expenses - tuition, books, room and board costs, as well as computers and related technology costs such as Internet access fees and printers. In addition, up to $10,000 annually can be used toward K-12 school tuition per student from all 529 Plans.*

 *Withdrawals for K-12 tuition can be withdrawn free from federal taxes, however tax benefits vary by State and may include recapture of any tax deduction, state income tax as well as penalties. You should talk to a qualified professional about how tax provisions affect your circumstances.

Many parents worry that a 529 plan can adversely affect eligibility for financial aid. So long as the parent is the account owner, funds are typically treated as belonging to the parent, not the child, minimizing the impact on financial aid.* And with the majority of financial aid comprised of loans, every dollar saved today may be one less dollar borrowed tomorrow. 

*The treatment of investments in a 529 savings plan varies by school. Assets are typically treated as the account holder’s and not the student’s. (Student assets are generally assessed at 20% whereas parental assets are generally assessed at 5.6%.) Any investments, including those in 529 accounts, may affect the student's eligibility to get financial aid based on need. You should check with the schools you are considering regarding this issue.

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Why a TIAA College Savings Plan

Experience. Knowledge. Leadership.

TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc. (TFI) was one of the first program managers to enter the 529 college savings plan market, and we're still committed to bringing you the best 529 plans.

TFI manages 7 direct-sold and 2 advisor-sold* 529 college savings plans. Our dedicated education savings specialists can answer your questions and help you choose a college plan that works best for you.

* TFI managed advisor plans are distributed and marketed by Nuveen Securities, a wholly owned subsidiary of TIAA.

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The 529 college savings plans listed above are offered and administered by the issuing state. Please refer to the Plan Description prior to investing for its investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses and whether your home state offers tax or other benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, or protection from creditors for investing in its own 529 plan. Carefully read the Plan Description on each state's site, or call the college savings plan for assistance. Investments in the TFI-managed 529 college savings plans are neither insured nor guaranteed and there is the risk of investment loss. Consult your legal or tax professional for tax advice. If funds aren't used for qualified education expenses, a 10% penalty tax on earnings (as well as federal and state income taxes) may apply.

TIAA-CREF Tuition Financing, Inc. (TFI) is the Plan Manager for several state 529 plans, and TIAA-CREF Individual & Institutional Services, LLC, Member FINRA, is the distributor and underwriter for those plans.

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